Old Testament
Genesis 39:23
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In Genesis 39:23, we see that Joseph, despite being imprisoned, was favored by God.
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites in the wilderness
The warden did not need to oversee anything under Joseph's care, because the LORD was with him, and the LORD made everything he did succeed.
The keeper of the prison looked not to any thing that was under his hand; because the LORD was with him, and that which he did, the LORD made it to prosper.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In Genesis 39:23, we see that Joseph, despite being imprisoned, was favored by God. The warden of the prison did not have to worry about Joseph's responsibilities because Joseph was trustworthy and successful in everything he did. This success was attributed to the presence of the LORD with him, indicating that divine support can lead to prosperity even in difficult circumstances. Joseph's ability to manage his duties effectively shows his character and integrity, which earned him the warden's trust. This verse highlights the theme of God's providence and how His presence can transform challenging situations into opportunities for success. It reassures believers that, even in trials, they can find favor and success through their faithfulness and reliance on God. Explore related gods.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Genesis 39:23 to your life
This verse encourages us to remain faithful and diligent in our responsibilities, even in tough situations. When we trust in God and seek His presence, we can find success and favor, just like Joseph did. Our integrity and hard work can lead to unexpected blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Genesis Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Genesis 39:23 mean?
Genesis 39:23 means that Joseph, despite being in prison, was successful in his duties because God was with him. The warden trusted Joseph completely, showing that divine support can lead to success even in difficult situations.
What is the significance of God's presence in Genesis 39:23?
The significance of God's presence in Genesis 39:23 is that it highlights how divine favor can lead to prosperity. Joseph's success in prison demonstrates that with God's support, one can thrive even in adversity.
How does Genesis 39:23 relate to success in adversity?
Genesis 39:23 illustrates that success in adversity is achievable through faithfulness and reliance on God. Joseph's ability to prosper in prison serves as an example that challenges can be transformed into opportunities with divine support.
What themes are present in Genesis 39:23?
The themes present in Genesis 39:23 include God's presence, divine favor, success in adversity, trustworthiness, integrity, and God's providence. These themes emphasize how faith and diligence can lead to unexpected blessings.

The Book of Genesis
Genesis 1: Creation
God creates the heaven and the earth, and the earth is without form and void, covered in darkness as His Spirit moves upon the waters. He speaks light into existence, separates it from darkness, and names them Day and Night. He divides the waters with a firmament called Heaven, gathers the lower waters to reveal dry land called Earth, and commands the earth to bring forth grass, herbs, and fruit trees yielding seed after their kind. He sets the sun, moon, and stars in the firmament to divide day from night, to give light, and to mark seasons, days, and years. He fills the waters with living creatures and the air with fowl, blessing them to multiply, then creates cattle, creeping things, and beasts of the earth. Finally, He creates man in His own image, male and female, gives them dominion over all living things, and appoints every herb and tree for food, and He sees that all He has made is very good.
Unlock the full Genesis summary
Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.
The complete summary of Genesis — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 50 chapters.
What you get
Every chapter of Genesis summarized in clear, modern English
How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points
Permanent access — read anytime, on any device
Best value • Save over 90%
One-time purchase • Access anytime
ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.
Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.